Preppy

The word “preppy” is used a lot in the world of fashion. What is it? And how can it make your bedroom look cool and exciting? Simply put, the world of prep is about dressing with a timeless style – like you’re going to a prep school. Preppy items look clean, polished and classic, and they have an air of respect about them. When you think of all things preppy, you might think of plaid shirts, monograms, school uniforms and nautical twists, and these elements all translate wonderfully into bedroom decor. Does that sound like your cup of tea? Check out our preppy room offerings at PBteen for ideas on infusing your space with classic style.

The first element of preppy interior designing is color, because it’s great for setting the mood. People with preppy attitudes are happy anywhere, whether boating, heading to a restaurant with friends or relaxing at home. Focus on tones that are bold, and use them to create a theme. Bright red, navy, mint green and pink are a few classically preppy options, but any color combination works, which gives you even more flexibility in decorating. Red and green, for example, stand out in a preppy bedroom.

Of course, prep is also about keeping it simple. If you’re going for colors that have a big pop, you might use them with just a couple of pieces of decor. That’s where throws and decorative pillows are so helpful. As an example, in a white bedroom with mint green as the main color accent – for bedding and artwork – a bright pink throw stands out but stays tasteful. Add a striped navy rug to balance things out.

How simple should you go? That’s up to you! Just make sure the decorations you choose are the ones you love. You want your room to still have a spacious and refreshing atmosphere that inspires you and feels comfortable.

Because preppy decor is so connected with American culture, it’s natural to use some vintage and artistic elements in your room. “Vintage” is a pretty broad term that can refer to styles from the 1920s, 1930s, 1940s, 1950s and more. Some possibilities are a tufted headboard, a leather desk chair and a classic floor lamp. Sculptures and artwork can also be vintage – which makes them preppy too – especially if they have simple lines. Black and white photographs with a pop of color work particularly well.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a great idea to blend a fusion of prep and another style. Feel free to design your own signature look for your bedroom. Does that mean that preppy-glam or modern prep will? Of course! If you love it, go for it.

Patterns are another great tool for prep-culture decor. Plaid is a real classic for both guys and girls. Navy and green, navy and gray, navy and beige, navy and maroon – you get the idea – are great choices that make your room feel comfortable and confident. Stripes work too. Try using a striped rug on the floor with navy and pink to make a definite fashion statement. And polka dots? Of course. They’re fun and playful, which is ideal for preppy rooms. Let your imagination run free when choosing colors.

Because of the nautical theme that ties into preppy elements, borders are a big thing in this kind of decor. You notice it in white picture frames, wall art with borders, bedding and rugs. A white or gray bed or bedside table with wooden slats – strips of vertical wood – adds to the bright and airy ocean theme of the room. Toss in a bright accent pillow with white geometric lines for an extra bit of style.

Don’t forget your monogram. Personalizing your pillow, sheets, towels or bathrobe makes you feel special, and monograms look awesome as decor. Use a traditional layout with an elegant typeface, or think outside of the box to give things a modern twist.

Polka dots get a golden makeover on this supersoft bedding and add standout style to your room. This duvet cover + sham is designed exclusively for PBteen by celebrity stylists and fashion designers Emily Current and Meritt Elliott. DETAILS ...